Post Completion OPT and STEM OPT
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a benefit for F-1 students that allows for temporary employment directly related to their major field of study. It provides valuable hands-on experience in the United States.
There are two types of OPT:
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Pre-Completion OPT – May be used during your program of study after completing at least one full academic year.
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Post-Completion OPT – Begins after you complete your program and also requires at least one full academic year of enrollment.
As an F-1 student, you may apply for up to 12 months of Post-Completion OPT. This benefit is granted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) — not by the Immigration & International Support Services (IISS) office.
Applying for Post-Completion OPT
OPT Application Process
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Complete Online Workshop
Completion Post-Completion OPT Workshop by logging into IISS Portal and looking under (3) Student Documents and Requests. -
Submit a Request to IISS
Log in to the ISSS Portal and submit an OPT - Optional Practical Training request. Once approved, you will receive a new I-20 with the OPT recommendation and instructions for submitting your application to USCIS. -
Submit Your Application to USCIS
Following instructions received with new I-20, file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization online with USCIS. Be sure to include all required documents, including your new OPT-recommended I-20. USCIS must receive your application within 30 days of the OPT recommendation date listed on your I-20.
Notes about filing OPT
- The application fee is $470.00.
- Processing time is typically 90–120 days.
- You cannot begin employment until you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as the "OPT Card."
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Working before receiving your EAD is a violation of F-1 status and may result in the termination of your SEVIS record.
For more information, please visit OPT – Study in the States and attend an IISS workshop offered during the fall and spring semesters.
Reporting Requirements for OPT
Once you receive your EAD card, you must:
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Submit the EAD Report online via IISS Portal (as an MCPHS alumni).
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Report your OPT employment using the OPT Employment Update form via IISS Portal.
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Submit this only after you have accepted a position.
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You are required to report employment updates within 10 days of starting a new position or leaving an existing one.
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Maintaining your F-1 status during OPT depends on meeting these reporting requirements.
STEM OPT Extension (24-Month Extension)
You may be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension if you:
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Are currently on Post-Completion OPT.
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Have earned a qualifying STEM degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate).
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Submit your STEM OPT application within 90 days before your current OPT end date.
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Your degree's CIP code (found in the “Program Information” section of your I-20) must appear on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List.
Reporting Requirements for STEM OPT
Even after your STEM OPT application is approved, you must:
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Submit an updated EAD Report with your new STEM OPT EAD card.
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Report your employment through the STEM Validation Report every 6 months, even if there are no changes.
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Submit a new or updated Form I-983 in the following cases:
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Every 12 months (annual self-evaluation).
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When changing employers (including a final evaluation for the previous employer and a new Form I-983 for the new employer).
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For any material changes to your training plan (such as job title, responsibilities, or location).
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Additional Reminders for STEM OPT
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Employers must report if an F-1 student leaves their position within 5 days of the student’s departure.
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F-1 students must update:
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Any change of address.
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Any change in employment or training plan (via Form I-983).
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All updates must be submitted within 10 days of the change.
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Need Help?
If you have questions about OPT or STEM OPT, please contact the IISS team at
📧 internationalservices@mcphs.edu
Or visit us during walk-in hours or schedule an appointment with your International Student Advisor.